Small fire lit, extinguished at Northward

A small fire was lit Thursday evening in a cell by an inmate at the men’s prison, HMP Northward, according to a government press release.

Emergency services were called and the Cayman Islands Fire Service attended the scene to confirm the fire was extinguished.

The inmate was taken to the hospital for examination as the result of smoke inhalation.

“Fire has the potential to create destructive levels of smoke and within a prison environment, the risks associated with this are significantly amplified. I am extremely grateful for the swift intervention of the prison staff in dealing with the situation so competently and effectively. The quick response of our emergency service partners is also hugely appreciated,” said Director of Prisons Steve Barrett in a press statement.

The fire service is investigating the cause of the fire and an internal Prison Service review is expected.